Top Nara Prefecture Arts & Design

This tour is recommended for those visiting Nara for the first time, and allows you to fully enjoy the charm of Nara in one day. This tour is a greedy plan that goes around all famous tourist spots in Nara City, such as Todaiji Temple, famous for the Great Buddha, and a historic shrine Kasuga Taisha, in addition to Kofukuji and Naramachi. It condenses various genres such as history, culture, and food, and is definitely a great satisfaction. If you want to spend the best day in Nara, please join this tour! [Standard tour visit spot] ・ Kofuku-ji Temple ・ Toadai-ji Temple ・ Todaiji Temple Nigatsudo ・ Kasuga Taisha Shrine [Customized tour selectable spot] Kofuku-ji Temple / Todai-ji Temple / Nigatsu-do Hall / Kasuga Taisha Shrine / Nara Park / Tamukeyama Hachimangu Shrine / Naramachi District / Shin-Yakushi-ji Temple / Isuien & Neiraku Museum / Toshodai-ji Temple / Heijo Palace Site Historical Park / Wakakusa-yama Hill / Yakushi-ji Temple

Historically Nara was the capital of Japan and the seat of the Emperor during the Nara period from 710 to 794, before the capital was moved to Kyoto. This ancient capital has three registered World Heritage Sites: “Historical Properties of Ancient Nara,” “Buddhist Monuments around Horyuji Temple,” and “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.” Culturally, the method of making ink was introduced to Japan in 610. It then developed in Nara. More than 90% of Japan’s ink is produced in Nara, and the brand has been established as “Nara Sumi.” Nara is a special place where you can experience Japan’s ancient history and culture, surrounded by museums displaying art and historical materials, including world heritage sites, national treasures, and important cultural properties. Discover this city with us and experience its charm for yourself.

This tour offers more than just a visit to beautiful gardens—it’s a deep dive into Japanese aesthetics, history, and cultural philosophy. You'll explore two contrasting yet complementary gardens: the tranquil Yoshikien, where you’ll learn to recognize key elements of Japanese garden design through its moss, pond, and tea gardens; and the more complex Isuien, where Edo- and Meiji-era styles merge into a single flowing landscape that masterfully incorporates borrowed scenery. Led by an expert guide, you'll discover not just how these gardens look—but why they are designed the way they are, and what deeper messages they convey. The experience culminates with a matcha tea tasting overlooking Isuien’s most stunning view, allowing you to reflect on what you’ve seen with all five senses. Whether you're a lover of Japanese culture, a garden enthusiast, or simply someone seeking peaceful beauty with meaning, this tour offers insight, inspiration, and elegance in equal measure.

What sets this tour apart is the rare combination of guided insight, scenic harmony, and immersive tradition—all in one serene location. Unlike typical garden visits, this experience includes not only a walk through one of Nara’s most beautifully preserved historical gardens, but also a carefully guided exploration of its unique design, history, and the art of shakkei (borrowed scenery). You'll learn how the garden uses nature and architecture to craft living works of art—then sit down to enjoy freshly prepared matcha in the building with the finest view of the garden. It’s a tour that brings Japanese beauty to life through sight, story, and taste.

Founded in the 7th century and linked to Prince Shōtoku, Hōryū-ji Temple is a historic marvel and the oldest surviving wooden structure in the world. Start with the iconic Five-Story Pagoda, then explore the Kondo (Main Hall) with its significant Buddhist statues and relics. Wander the temple grounds to view ancient artifacts and gain insight into early Japanese Buddhism. A highlight of your visit is the Yumedono, an octagonal hall housing the revered Savior Kannon statue, offering a deep connection to Japan’s spiritual history. Dive into the intriguing legends and stories of Hōryū-ji, enriching your visit with the mysteries of Japan’s past.